Saddle up

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Friday October 5, 2012 5:35 AM

For an annual, 45-year-old event that generates $180 million in economic impact in central Ohio
each year, the All American Quarter Horse Congress has kept a fairly low profile.

Organizers for the event wouldn’t mind if that changed, and this year have added a couple of
attractions that should generate even more appeal among the general public in addition to the usual
competition in events such as jumping and cattle roping. You don’t have to own a horse or even know
how to ride one to enjoy the showmanship, shopping and dining opportunities at the event, which
starts today and runs through Oct. 28 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.

New this year is Cowboy Mounted Shooting, in which riders will guide their horses through a
course while trying to pop as many balloon targets as possible using blank-shooting .45-caliber
revolvers. Another first-time event will be Ride a Reiner, offering selected riders the chance to “
test drive” highly trained horses that perform skilled maneuvers including spins and sliding
stops.

Those who just want to soak up the atmosphere can stroll among hundreds of vendors selling a
wide range of goods, or partake of fair-type food or libations at one of the several bars that
operate on the grounds during the event. Make sure to try the warm cinnamon rolls; they’re a
not-to-be-missed favorite.

The Congress has its roots in central Ohio, but has become a national and even international
event. Founded by the Union County-based Ohio Quarter Horse Association in 1967, this year’s
Congress will draw horse owners from every U.S. state other than Utah and Hawaii, as well as owners
from every Canadian province, Australia, Switzerland and Belgium. It’s expected to draw about 5,000
horses and 650,000 participants and spectators over three weeks.

With these kinds of numbers, it’s not surprising that the event is bursting at the seams and in
need of expanded facilities. In June, Gov. John Kasich signed a bill granting the Ohio Expo Center
$1 million to revamp its master plan, with a focus on how to accommodate the ever-growing Congress.
Over the years, the organizers have paid for a number of buildings and improvements at the
fairgrounds, and are willing to put up money again once the master plan study is completed and
specific needs are determined.

To top it all off, the Quarter Horse Congress is a fun, affordable event for the whole family:
Participants range in age from 5 to 83. Admission is only $25 per vehicle, regardless of the number
of people; on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, that’s reduced to $15. If you don’t need parking —
if you are dropped off or bike in, for example — admission is free.

For a full schedule of events, visit www.oqha.com — and enjoy the show.